the facility is the largest of its kind outside china. lynas plans to use it to produce about 22,000 tons a year of rare earths including neodymium. the substance is a key component of electric vehicle motors and other high-tech products. china dominates the rare earth market, and companies looking to diversify their supplies are keeping a close eye on developments at the plant in malaysia. and japan hopes to secure one-third of its annual supply from the facility when it reaches full capacity. start-up was delayed for more than a year amid protests by local residents and environmental groups. they're worried the plant's radioactive waste may contaminate the local environment. in a statement on friday, lynas said it would provide data to reassure people the plant is safe. and even so, residents are threatening to file a fresh lawsuit against the plant, which could, again, disrupt production. >>> one of thailand's most famous traditional celebrations wrapped up this week. the loy krathong festival was initially intended as a way for people